NFL Network added a pair of Broncos to its list of the top 100 players in 2012 on Wednesday night’s show. Quarterback Peyton Manning came in at No. 50, despite missing the entire 2011 season with an injury. Cornerback Champ Bailey became the highest ranking Bronco on the list thus far at No. 46.

“I always think there’s room to grow, so I’m never content with where I am,” Bailey said. “I’m just trying to go out every year and earn the respect of my peers.”

Former Broncos safety Brian Dawkins, who retired earlier this year, was in studio to discuss Bailey’s ranking.

“You knew he was going to bring it every play,” Bailey said about Dawkins. “Whether it’s practice or the film room, it didn’t matter. He was going to bring it 100 percent. Dawkins is one of a kind. I was just blessed to have a couple years with him. I wish I could have had my whole career with a guy like him.”
Manning’s ranking elicited plenty of conversation around the league since he didn’t play a snap during the 2011 season.

“I know what I see in practice,” Bailey said about Manning. “I know he looks good in practice. Only game time will really tell what he’s going to do, but I have all the confidence in the world that we’re going to get the best Peyton Manning that we’ve seen for the past few years. I don’t expect anything less than that and I’m looking forward to a great year with him.”

Previous Broncos to make the list include running back Willis McGahee (98), Elvis Dumervil (68) and Von Miller (52).

What do you think of Bailey’s ranking? Should he have been higher on the list? How about Manning?

-Stuart Zaas

Tags: Champ Bailey, Peyton Manning

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